States are debating whether revenge porn is protected by the First Amendment. Austin was arrested and charged with a felony: “nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images,” otherwise known as revenge porn or sextortion. Appeals courts are beginning to take up cases involving the constitutionality of “revenge porn” statutes. The legislation was challenged, and the case is pending in the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, the state’s highest criminal court. The Illinois Supreme Court heard arguments last week over whether the First Amendment protects “revenge porn.” A decision is expected in the upcoming months.

Source: Washington Post May 19, 2019 15:07 UTC